The renewed agitation for an Imo governor of Owerri Zone extraction in 2027 has reopened old political fault lines in the state, even as it rekindles debate around the implementation of the Imo Charter of Equity. With barely two years into his second term, Governor Hope Uzodimma is facing mounting expectations to clarify the pathway to succession — and whether Owerri Zone will indeed produce the next governor.
The Charter of Equity, an informal but influential political understanding among Imo’s three senatorial zones — Owerri, Orlu and Okigwe — was designed to promote rotational governorship and balance in power distribution. Since its rollout, political actors from Owerri Zone have intensified calls for what they describe as the “completion of equity,” arguing that the zone remains the only bloc yet to produce a democratically elected governor in the current political dispensation who served for two terms after Emeka Ihedioha was sacked as governor by the Supreme Court.
Before securing his re-election, Uzodimma had publicly indicated that power would shift to Owerri Zone in 2027. Multiple video clips of the governor making such assurances have circulated widely on social media, reinforcing expectations within the zone. However, since commencing his second term, the governor has not made any fresh or categorical pronouncement on the matter, creating a vacuum that has fueled speculation.
Political observers note that the silence has triggered diverse reactions. While leaders and pressure groups in Owerri Zone insist that the promise constitutes a moral and political obligation, actors in Okigwe Zone have also stepped up consultations, arguing that zoning remains a political negotiation rather than a binding constitutional arrangement. Some in Okigwe contend that equity should be interpreted within a broader framework that considers historical tenure patterns before 1999.
The evolving contest has placed Owerri Zone at the centre of political calculations. Many analysts argue that the prevailing mood in the state appears sympathetic to an Owerri governorship candidacy, especially among stakeholders who view zoning as a stabilizing mechanism in a politically volatile environment. For them, allowing Owerri to produce the next governor could consolidate the governor’s legacy as one who respects rotational balance.
Yet, even among proponents of an Owerri zone governor, a more pressing question lingers: Who will Mr Uzodimma support or choose as his successor? The governor retains significant influence within the state chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and is widely expected to play a decisive role in determining the party’s flag bearer. However, no clear favourite has emerged publicly from his inner circle.
Contrary to suggestions of a talent deficit, Owerri Zone is not lacking in high-profile political actors with statewide visibility and administrative experience. However, none of the governor’s prominent allies from the zone has openly declared interest in the race. This reticence has been interpreted by some insiders as strategic restraint, premised on the belief that early ambition without the governor’s blessing could be politically costly.
Within the APC, party loyalists say the succession question is delicate. A senior party official who spoke to INNONEWS, who requested anonymity because he was not authorised to speak publicly, noted that “everyone is waiting for the signal.” According to him, aspirants are unlikely to move decisively until Uzodimma clarifies his position or subtly indicates a preferred direction.
